Studio Spotlight: Flybarre

You know I love a good barre class (read about that here) and I have tried many different studios. Most studios have basically the same principles and movements, and add their own little twist. One of my favorite barre classes is Flybarre at Flywheel Sports, which also offers one of my absolute favorite indoor cycling classes.
Flybarre stands out amongst other barre classes because they emphasize fun in the class- I mean they have a whole choreographed arm dance that changes month to month, and dancing while lifting weights makes the work go by in a snap!

They also constantly change and evolve their core movements so your body doesn’t get used to anything. I have been to many barre classes that are basically the same thing every single time…and not only is that boring, but eventually you body will get used to it and you won’t feel as challenged. If I commit a chunk of time to working out, I want to know that it’s challenging me and actually doing something- I don’t want to just coast easily through because progress will never be made. Which makes perfect sense why the Flywheel brands motto is “Never Coast”!

The vibe in Flybarre is very welcoming- the teachers always make a point to say hello, know your name and give helpful adjustments. In a barre class, perfect form is key, so hands on adjustments are a pivotal part of a good instructors job! The studios are clean and all of the equipment is new and in great condition. The equipment used in Flybarre are: hand weights (1lb-5lb), playground balls, matts, and resistance bands. Its all about low weight (or body weight) and high reps which gets your muscles burning and shaking…and builds lean muscle to get you to that long lean look.

I sat down with Kara Liotta, Flybarre creative director and wonder woman of an athlete. She is in charge of teacher training and coming up with new movements to add to the Flybarre routines. She makes sure to keep things new and fresh, while still keeping everyone’s favorite (and maybe not so favorite) movements going strong…i.e.: flat back chair and diamond series. She is also a Nike Trainer and Ambassador and is basically a superstar in the fitness scene. If you get a chance to take her class you won’t be disappointed.

Kara is also a fitness model, I mean look at her! And watching her in class is very motivating…as are the rest of the instructors! Total ab envy! And when you feel like you can’t possible hold a position for another second or do another rep, these motivating instructors are there to tell you to “embrace the shake” and that you are stronger than you think you are- and I guarantee you are!

A Flybarre class goes by so fast because you are constantly moving and changing positions… and the music stays up beat to keep you having fun. Each instructor creates their own playlists and the movements in class are synced perfectly to the beat of the music. The studios also offer such cute fitness gear, make sure to check that out too when you stop by.Flybarre currently has 23 locations across the nation with more and more popping up every year.
If you live near or visit any of these locations, make sure to check out a Flybarre class, or maybe do a Flywheel/Flybarre double! I do these from time to time and they are the perfect accent to one another!

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4 Responses

Ellen

June 17, 2016

Thanks Katrina, it looks really great. Although wondering how difficult these classes are for people who are not very naturally flexible. (Not sure if you can advise on that – you are probably a pro at it)

fitkatadmin

June 17, 2016

Flexibility is not really a concern for a barre class…its different than a pilates or yoga class flexibility-wise, and its good for all skill levels. Most barre classes also incorporate stretches in between different exercises, so it’ll actually help you become MORE flexible! Hope this helps!